Napa Valley’s most famous wine event will make its East Coast debut this winter, providing unparalleled access to prestigious winemakers and celebrated chefs from January 17 – 19, 2025

BOCA RATON, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — South Florida’s iconic resort and private club, The Boca Raton, announces tickets are now live for its highly anticipated Artisans of Wine & Food weekend, taking place January 17-19, 2025. The first-of-its-kind event in partnership with the esteemed Napa Valley Vintners will bring together more than 75 winemakers, 20+ celebrated and Michelin-starred chefs, and immersive programming for a celebration of fine wine and food that promises to become a coveted annual tradition. Gourmands can purchase tickets for the event here.

The multi-day experience, presented by Capital One, will be orchestrated by some of the world’s most renowned culinary minds such as legendary Chef David Breeden, famed Chef and Restaurateur Mario Carbone, and a dinner curated by an all-female line-up of top chefs matched with female-owned wineries/winemakers.

The weekend culminates with a gala where attendees will indulge in a four-course dinner artistically directed by Fabio Trabocchi, Michelin-Starred Chef and Restaurateur of Washington DC’s Fiola and Boca Raton’s Fiolina Ristorante. As the evening unfolds, guests will have the opportunity to bid on fine wines, luxury experiences, and bespoke getaways, in an exclusive auction hosted by international auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins.

“For the first time, we’re bringing the heart of Napa Valley to the East Coast in an unprecedented showcase of wine and culinary talent,” said Daniel A. Hostettler, President & CEO of The Boca Raton. “It’s a privilege to host these celebrated vintners and chefs, and we’ve crafted an extraordinary event for Club members and hotel guests to toast to a truly worthy cause.”

The wine auction’s proceeds will benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County and Napa Valley.  This charitable initiative highlights The Boca Raton’s dedication to supporting local neighborhoods and investing in youth development through educational and enrichment programs.

SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Friday, January 17

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• Choose from a series of exclusive dinners hosted by celebrated vintners of Napa Valley:

• • The Great Cabernets of Napa Valley four-course dinner will showcase a modern interpretation of a chophouse menu with big bottle cabs, featuring Chefs Will Cox of The Boca Raton, Nathan Rich of Twin Farms, Chris Huerta of Old Edwards Inn, and Adam Young of Sift Bake Shop.
    
  • At Bella Notte, dine like family during an Italian feast by James Beard Award-winning Master Chef Mario Carbone of Michelin-starred restaurants Carbone and ZZ’s Clam Bar.
    
  • Dinner En Plein Air is curated by female vintners and Relais & Châteaux chefs, Jennifer Backman of The Inn at Castle Hill, Sarah Steffan of Blackberry Farm, and Lindsay Autry of Honeybelle – PGA National, with a dessert course by Pastry Chef Jessica Quiet of Ocean House.
    
  • The Premiere Napa Valley Dinner offers a barrel tasting of Napa Valley’s rarest micro-lot wines, an opportunity to select and wear Lugano Diamonds during the tasting, and indulge in a multi-course menu by Michelin-starred Chef Stéphane Andrieux of Château de la Treyne and Sebastien Feneyrol of The Boca Raton.
    
  • A Culinary Celebration of Caviar dinner with Executive Chef Edgar Panchernikov boasts dishes from the world’s only Michelin-starred caviar house Caviar Russe.
    
  • Icons of Napa Valley offers an intimate, al fresco dining experience showcasing exceptional Napa Valley wines with menus prepared by Chef David Breeden, former Chef de Cuisine at The French Laundry–a role he held for nearly 20 years.
    
  • Latin Flavors four-course dinner by Chef Adriano Venturini of Eden Roc Cap Cana, a Relais & Châteaux resort in the Dominican Republic.
    
  • An Argentine Asado BBQ served on The Boca Raton’s fairway, features food stations and dishes using traditional asado techniques and modern twists, live music, and single-site wines.
• An Artisans After Hours event presents chef-curated hors d’oeuvres, alongside premium wines and music by Vintner and DJ Jason Lede. Close out the day in style while mingling with winemakers and celebrated chefs.

Saturday, January 18

• Vintners Invitational Golf Tournament: Play side by side with vintners and chefs for prizes provided by Bugatchi and TaylorMade, complete with continental breakfast at The Boca Raton Golf Club.
  
• Winemaker Series: Seven different intimate educational tastings led by Napa Valley’s renowned winemakers and vintners. Take part in discussions that spotlight the unique terroir and signature wines of the region, featuring BOND Wine, Groth Vineyards & Winery, Oakville, among several others. Topics include Mountain vs. Valley Floor, a Riedel performance tasting, wine & caviar pairings, and more.
  
• The Discover Napa Valley Tasting Pavilion featuring more than 125 world-class wines and over 20 restaurants: Guests can drift through the tented Grand Lawn and relish in great sips and decadent tastings along the way.
  
• Modern Meritage on the Spanish Terrace: 12 celebrated chefs prepare their personal favorite burger recipes paired with craft beer in an al fresco setting.
  
• Yacht Tour of Lake Boca: Enjoy a one-hour charter on open water accompanied by a vintner for relaxed and intimate conversations while indulging in world-class wines.
  
• Sip & Shop with Worth Avenue: Sip on sparkling wine and rosé while browsing through the collection of six high-end boutiques from Palm Beach’s famed Worth Avenue. Boutiques include Brioni, Carolina Herrera, Anne Fontaine, among others.
  
• Artisans of Wine & Food Charity Auction and Gala featuring a four-course dinner directed by Fabio Trabocchi, Michelin-Starred Chef and Restaurateur of Washington DC’s Fiola and Boca Raton’s Fiolina Ristorante: Bid on artisan-crafted bottles, luxurious delights, and bespoke getaways. Auction led by globally-recognized auctioneer Jacqueline Towers-Perkins, with proceeds benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County and Napa Valley.

Sunday, January 19

• To the South with Love is a Southern brunch experience hosted by International BBQ Entertainer Jack Arnold and a curated selection of Palm Beach restaurants. Delight in a final send-off, complete with live jazz music, and a sparkling wine bar.

Stay up to date on news and developments at ArtisansofWineandFood.com. Follow along on social media @artisansofwineandfood.

The Boca Raton
The Boca Raton originally opened in 1926 as The Ritz-Carlton Cloister Inn. In the 2020s, it celebrates its most remarkable evolution and its 100th anniversary. The property provides year-round escape, exclusively for members of The Boca Raton Club and resort guests. Five hotels amid 200 waterfront acres include Cloister, Yacht Club, Beach Club, Tower, and Bungalows. The unveiling of Beach Club in December 2024 marks a major milestone in The Boca Raton’s storied history, serving as Phase II of the resort’s transformation. The Boca Raton’s culinary offerings showcase a world of flavor, with signature restaurants in partnership with Major Food Group. Resort amenities include a private beach, the Forbes Five-Star Spa Palmera, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service marina, Racquet Club with 14 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts, retail shops, seven swimming pools, and various water activities at Harborside Pool Club, state-of-the-art fitness clubs and wellness collaborations. For reservations, call (561) 447-3000 or visit TheBocaRaton.com.

Capital One
At Capital One, we’re on a mission for our customers – bringing them best-in-class products, rewards, service, and experiences. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses, and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation, and interaction to provide consumers with products and services to meet their needs. Through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment, we provide our rewards cardholders with access to unforgettable experiences in the areas they’re passionate about, including dining, music, sports and the arts. Learn more at capitalone.com/dining and capitalone.com/entertainment.

About the Napa Valley Vintners 
The Napa Valley Vintners nonprofit trade association has been cultivating excellence since 1944 by inspiring its nearly 550 members to consistently produce wines of the highest quality, provide environmental leadership and care for the extraordinary place they call home. NVV has invested more than $230 million in community healthcare, youth development and the environment in Napa County, and is dedicated to improving diversity and championing inclusivity in its community and in the wine industry. Learn more at napavintners.com. 

SOURCE The Boca Raton

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Welcome back, pickleball enthusiasts! Today, we are diving into a very special episode of People of Pickleball featuring the dynamic Paul Bamundo, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Pickleball League (NPL). As the mastermind behind the league’s incredible growth and success, Bamundo brings a wealth of experience from his previous stints at the NBA, IMG, and Subway, among other prominent organizations. In his conversation with Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa, we get a glimpse into the exciting second season of the NPL and the upcoming championship weekend.

Enter the World of Pickleball

Paul Bamundo’s journey into the world of pickleball is as intriguing as the game itself. Although familiar with pickleball for several years, it was his local tennis club in Connecticut that first introduced him to the sport. Known for his prowess in a variety of racquet sports, Bamundo quickly became captivated by pickleball’s unique charm and explosive growth.

A serendipitous text during a Jackson Browne concert set the wheels in motion for Bamundo’s eventual role as CEO of the NPL. In true “undercover boss” style, he visited the Glendale championship last year, blending into the vibrant pickleball community and witnessing firsthand the league’s potential.

Season Two Unveiled

As the NPL enters its second season, Bamundo proudly reflects on the expansion from 6 to 12 teams. The league has simultaneously fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and fierce competition among players, drawing parallels to his experiences in the Ivy League. Importantly, the NPL remains committed to gender equality by ensuring an equal division between men’s and women’s rosters, with equal weight given to all players’ efforts.

The impact of pickleball’s growth is undeniable. With new venues and an ever-expanding fanbase, Bamundo envisions a future with East and West divisions and thrilling playoff tournaments, possibly growing even bigger with more teams in the pipeline. Despite the current logistical challenges, the NPL’s innovative approach has laid a strong foundation for future success in professional pickleball.

The Championship and Beyond

Excitement is mounting as the Championship Weekend looms on the horizon. Hosted at the acclaimed Pickle Lodge in Cincinnati, this year’s event promises to deliver unforgettable matches with live-streamed games and CBS coverage, showcasing the exhilarating skill and talent of the players.

Bamundo anticipates that the competitive spirit, skillful plays, and engaging personalities of NPL stars will captivate both new fans and seasoned pickleball enthusiasts alike. As these players bring their impressive athletic and professional backgrounds to the court, they add a distinct layer of depth to the league, drawing more eyes and amassing a devoted following.

A Sport of Community and Passion

At its core, Bamundo emphasizes that pickleball is about fostering healthy competition and building a tight-knit community. Whether it’s the players or the fans, those involved in the NPL quickly find themselves drawn into a supportive, energetic environment unlike any other.

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The episode concludes with an invitation to join the NPL family, either in person at the Championship Weekend or by following the live events online. It’s a thrilling time for pickleball, and with leaders like Paul Bamundo steering the ship, there’s no limit to where this sport can go.

Stay tuned for more insights, and be sure to follow the National Pickleball League’s exciting journey towards a brighter, bigger future in the world of sports!

Paul Bamundo

http://nplpickleball.com

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Aram Goudsouzian, University of Memphis

In the summer of 1967, Martin Luther King Jr. introduced the keynote speaker for the 10th-anniversary convention banquet of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Their guest, he said, was his “soul brother.”

“He has carved for himself an imperishable niche in the annals of our nation’s history,” King told the audience of 2,000 delegates. “I consider him a friend. I consider him a great friend of humanity.”

That man was Sidney Poitier.

Poitier, who died at 94 on Jan. 7, 2022, broke the mold of what a Black actor could be in Hollywood. Before the 1950s, Black movie characters generally reflected racist stereotypes such as lazy servants and beefy mammies. Then came Poitier, the only Black man to consistently win leading roles in major films from the late 1950s through the late 1960s. Like King, Poitier projected ideals of respectability and integrity. He attracted not only the loyalty of African Americans, but also the goodwill of white liberals.

In my biography of him, titled “Sidney Poitier: Man, Actor, Icon,” I sought to capture his whole life, including his incredible rags-to-riches arc, his sizzling vitality on screen, his personal triumphs and foibles and his quest to live up to the values set forth by his Bahamian parents. But the most fascinating aspect of Poitier’s career, to me, was his political and racial symbolism. In many ways, his screen life intertwined with that of the civil rights movement – and King himself.

An age of protests

In three separate columns in 1957, 1961 and 1962, a New York Daily News columnist named Dorothy Masters marveled that Poitier had the warmth and charisma of a minister. Poitier lent his name and resources to King’s causes, and he participated in demonstrations such as the 1957 Prayer Pilgrimage and the 1963 March on Washington. In this era of sit-ins, Freedom Rides and mass marches, activists engaged in nonviolent sacrifice not only to highlight racist oppression, but also to win broader sympathy for the cause of civil rights.

In that same vein, Poitier deliberately chose to portray characters who radiated goodness. They had decent values and helped white characters, and they often sacrificed themselves. He earned his first star billing in 1958, in “The Defiant Ones,” in which he played an escaped prisoner handcuffed to a racist played by Tony Curtis. At the end, with the chain unbound, Poitier jumps off a train to stick with his new white friend. Writer James Baldwin reported seeing the film on Broadway, where white audiences clapped with reassurance, their racial guilt alleviated. When he saw it again in Harlem, members of the predominantly Black audience yelled “Get back on the train, you fool!”

King won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. In that same year, Poitier won the Oscar for Best Actor for “Lilies of the Field,” in which he played Homer Smith, a traveling handyman who builds a chapel for German nuns out of the goodness of his heart. The sweet, low-budget movie was a surprise hit. In its own way, like the horrifying footage of water hoses and police dogs attacking civil rights activists, it fostered swelling support for racial integration.

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A better man

By the time of the actor’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference speech, both King and Poitier seemed to have a slipping grip on the American public. Bloody and destructive riots plagued the nation’s cities, reflecting the enduring discontent of many poor African Americans. The swelling calls for “Black Power” challenged the ideals of nonviolence and racial brotherhood – ideals associated with both King and Poitier.

When Poitier stepped to the lectern that evening, he lamented the “greed, selfishness, indifference to the suffering of others, corruption of our value system, and a moral deterioration that has already scarred our souls irrevocably.” “On my bad days,” he said, “I am guilty of suspecting that there is a national death wish.”

By the late 1960s, both King and Poitier had reached a crossroads. Federal legislation was dismantling Jim Crow in the South, but African Americans still suffered from limited opportunity. King prescribed a “revolution of values,” denounced the Vietnam War, and launched a Poor People’s Campaign. Poitier, in his 1967 speech for the SCLC, said that King, by adhering to his convictions for social justice and human dignity, “has made a better man of me.”

Exceptional characters

Poitier tried to adhere to his own convictions. As long as he was the only Black leading man, he insisted on playing the same kind of hero. But in the era of Black Power, had Poitier’s saintly hero become another stereotype? His rage was repressed, his sexuality stifled. A Black critic, writing in The New York Times, asked “Why Does White America Love Sidney Poitier So?”

That critic had a point: As Poitier himself knew, his films created too-perfect characters. Although the films allowed white audiences to appreciate a Black man, they also implied that racial equality depends on such exceptional characters, stripped of any racial baggage. From late 1967 into early 1968, three of Poitier’s movies owned the top spot at the box office, and a poll ranked him the most bankable star in Hollywood.

Each film provided a hero who soothed the liberal center. His mannered schoolteacher in “To Sir, With Love” tames a class of teenage ruffians in London’s East End. His razor-sharp detective in “In the Heat of the Night” helps a crotchety white Southern sheriff solve a murder. His world-renowned doctor in “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” marries a white woman, but only after winning the blessing of her parents.

“I try to make movies about the dignity, nobility, the magnificence of human life,” he insisted. Audiences flocked to his films, in part, because he transcended racial division and social despair – even as more African Americans, baby boomers and film critics tired of the old-fashioned do-gooder spirit of these movies.

Intertwined lives

And then, the lives of Martin Luther King Jr. and Sidney Poitier intersected one final time. After King’s assassination on April 4, 1968, Poitier was a stand-in for the ideal that King embodied. When he presented at the Academy Awards, Poitier won a massive ovation. “In the Heat of the Night” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” captured most of the major awards. Hollywood again dealt with the nation’s racial upheaval through Poitier movies.

But after King’s violent murder, the Poitier icon no longer captured the national mood. In the 1970s, a generation of “Blaxploitation” films featured violent, sexually charged heroes. They were a reaction against the image of a Black leading man associated with Poitier. Although his career evolved, Poitier was no longer a superstar, and he no longer bore the burden of representing the Black freedom movement. Yet for a generation, he had served as popular culture’s preeminent expression of the ideals of Martin Luther King.

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Aram Goudsouzian, Bizot Family Professor of History, University of Memphis

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

https://stmdailynews.com/the-bridge

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